U.S. patent application number 11/187574 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-29 for electronic lock.
Invention is credited to Khalil, Mohamad A., Kimes, John J., Mitchell, Ernst K., Moon, Charles W..
Application Number | 20050284200 11/187574 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31993744 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050284200 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moon, Charles W. ; et
al. |
December 29, 2005 |
Electronic lock
Abstract
A lock programmer/interrogator assembly for communicating with
an electronic lock. The assembly includes a key comprising a
circuit card having surface contacts positioned to align with
contacts in an electronic lock smart card reader when the key is
inserted into a smart card reader module. A cable connector is
mounted on the circuit card. The circuit card includes current
paths that electrically connect the surface contacts to pins of the
cable connector. The assembly also includes a cable connectable at
a first end to the cable connector and at a second end to a
computer. The cable includes wires connectable between the pins of
the cable connector and the computer.
Inventors: |
Moon, Charles W.; (Colorado
Springs, CO) ; Mitchell, Ernst K.; (Sterling Heights,
MI) ; Khalil, Mohamad A.; (Sterling Heights, MI)
; Kimes, John J.; (Twin Peaks, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
REISING, ETHINGTON, BARNES, KISSELLE, P.C.
P O BOX 4390
TROY
MI
48099-4390
US
|
Family ID: |
31993744 |
Appl. No.: |
11/187574 |
Filed: |
July 22, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11187574 |
Jul 22, 2005 |
|
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|
10343553 |
Oct 23, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
70/278.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07C 2009/00761
20130101; G07C 9/00817 20130101; E05B 2047/003 20130101; E05B
47/0673 20130101; E05B 2047/0024 20130101; Y10T 70/7073 20150401;
E05B 2047/0016 20130101; E05B 47/0012 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
070/278.2 |
International
Class: |
E05B 049/00; E05B
047/06 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A lock programmer/interrogator assembly (212) for communicating
with an electronic lock (10), the assembly including: a key (214)
comprising a circuit card having surface contacts (216) positioned
to align with contacts in an electronic lock smart card reader (26)
when the key is inserted into a smart card reader module; a cable
connector (218) mounted on the circuit card, the circuit card
including current paths (220) electrically connecting the surface
contacts to cable connector pins of the cable connector, and a
cable (222) having a first cable end connectable to the cable
connector of the key and a second cable end configured to connect
to a computer (228), the cable including wires connected between
pins of the cable connector of the key and the computer.
2. A lock programmer/interrogator assembly (212) as defined in
claim 1 in which the computer (228) is programmed to interrogate an
electronic lock (10) that the key is inserted into.
3. A lock programmer/interrogator assembly (212) as defined in
claim 1 in which the computer (228) is programmed to apply power to
an electronic lock (10) that the key is inserted into.
4. A lock programmer/interrogator assembly (212) as defined in
claim 1 in which the computer (228) is programmed to program a lock
(10) that the key is inserted into.
Description
REFERENCE TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of Ser. No.
10/343,553, filed Jan. 31, 2003 which is based on PCT application
No. US00/33231, filed Dec. 8, 2000, which is based on provisional
application Ser. Nos. 60/190,970, filed Mar. 22, 2000 and
60/169,636 filed Dec. 8, 1999.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to an electronic mortise
lockset for mounting in a door and more particularly to such an
electronic lock having a motorized handle lock-out feature and an
electronic lockset controller for reading various types of key
cards and controlling the mortise lockset accordingly.
INVENTION BACKGROUND
[0003] Mortise locksets usually include handles that are operably
connected to retractable latch bolts by latch bolt retraction
mechanisms. A typical mortise lockset includes a generally
rectangular case that fits into a similarly-shaped complementary
cavity formed or cut into a door. The retractable latch bolt and
the retraction mechanism are supported within the case with a
portion of the latch bolt extending from the case in an extended
position. In the extended position the latch bolt engages a
complementary recess formed in a door jam when the door is closed.
When an operator turns the door handle the retraction mechanism
causes the latch bolt to retract from the door jam recess into a
retracted position in the mortise lockset case. With the latch bolt
in the retracted position, the door is free to move from the closed
position to an open position.
[0004] Most such mortise locksets also include some form of
lock-out mechanism that is positioned to mechanically engage either
the handle, the latch bolt or some portion of the retraction
mechanism. Such lock-out features are usually mounted in the
mortise lockset case and are configured to prevent the latch bolt
from being retracted and/or the handle from being turned without
first unlocking the locking mechanism by inserting a key or by
entering some type of coded entry command on a keypad.
[0005] An example of a mortise lockset having a handle lock-out
mechanism that prevents a handle portion of the lockset from being
moved without first inserting a key or key card is disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,474,348 issued Dec. 12, 1998 to Palmer et al. (the
Palmer patent). This patent shows an electronic lock having a door
handle lock-out feature that includes a motor-driven cam that moves
a sliding stop into engagement in a hub to lock the hub in place. A
slip clutch mechanism allows the motor to continue running after
the sliding stop has been driven to the full extent of its travel
into the hub. The motor is set to run for slightly longer than
required to ensure that the slider is fully engaged in the hub. The
door handle lock-out feature also includes a spring that stores
energy when the sliding stop is either blocked or hung up by
friction as it is being moved. When the blockage or hangup is
overcome, the stored spring energy moves the sliding stop into the
commanded position. A gearbox is connected between the motor and
the cam to allow the motor to run at high speed.
[0006] The cam disclosed in the Palmer patent is a locking bar type
cam with cam surfaces disposed at the end of an elongated spring
arm. The motor moves the spring arm and cam surfaces through a
short arc. The slip clutch mechanism disclosed in the Palmer patent
is located in a pivoting hub that supports the spring arm. The run
time of the motor disclosed in the Palmer patent is preset to
produce one full 360.degree. rotation.
[0007] The Palmer motor pivots the cam surfaces through an arc at
the end of an elongated arm mounted on a pivot hub that includes
the slip clutch. Therefore, along with the pivot hub, the cam
requires a considerable amount of space within the lock case both
for installation and for movement in operation. The elongated
spring arm is also prone to bending, i.e., plastic deformation.
Because the motor run time is preset to a constant value the Palmer
lock is unable to extend battery life by limiting motor run time.
The Palmer lock is also unable to determine when the sliding stop
is fully engaged. The Palmer lock is also unequipped to easily
adapt to applications where it may be necessary or desirable to
lock-out the interior handle rather than the exterior handle.
[0008] Some electronic mortise locksets also include deadbolt
position indicators that transmit deadbolt position information to
the logic circuitry of the lock. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,791,177 and 5,816,083 issued to Bianco (the Bianco patents) show
a controller that receives a deadbolt position indicating signal
through sensors mounted on a printed circuit board. A spindle turns
a communication plate which actuates the sensors. The communication
plate is configured to close electrical circuits when contacting
the sensors.
[0009] Some electronic mortise locksets include employee access
tracking systems that help employers determine and keep track of
which of their employees have gained access to which rooms in an
establishment such as a hotel or office building. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,437,174 to Aydin (the Aydin patent) and the Bianco
patents disclose electronic locks that download entry data onto key
cards. The information stored on the cards includes the times and
dates that the lock has been opened. However, the Aydin and Bianco
locks are unable to provide a record of entry on each user's
card.
[0010] Most electronic mortise locksets include some form of card
reader module configured to read bar code symbols printed on key
cards, magnetic strips affixed to key cards and/or to communicate
with integrated circuit chips (IC chips) embedded on so-called
"smart" key cards. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,990,758 issued Feb.
5, 1991 to Shibano et al. (the Shibano patent) shows a
snap-together card reader module including a magnetic reader.
Locking snaps hold the module together. A spring biases the
magnetic read head against a card that is inserted into the reader
module. While the Shibano lockset offers the ease of snap-together
construction, it lacks dual-function components that could further
simplify its assembly and operation.
[0011] Electronic locks have been designed that are both
programmable and interrogatable. For example, U.S. Pat. No.
4,848,115 issued to Clarkson et al. (the Clarkson patent) shows a
lock programmer including a serial port cable connected to a key. A
user may insert the key into a card reader module to program a
lock. However, the Clarkson lock programmer cannot be used to
interrogate a lock or to apply power to the lock.
[0012] What is needed is an electronic mortise lockset handle
lock-out mechanism that is more robust, requires less space within
the lockset case and that can extend battery life by limiting motor
run time while insuring full engagement of the lock-out mechanism.
What is also needed is an electronic mortise lockset that includes:
a deadbolt position indicator that does not require that open-air
electrical contact be made between a metal plate and wire sensors;
an employee access tracking system that provides a record of entry
on each user's key card; a card reader module that can read more
than one type of key card and that is easier to assemble; and that
includes a lock programmer capable of performing other operations
in addition to lock programming.
INVENTION SUMMARY
[0013] In accordance with this invention a mortise lockset
apparatus for a door mounted in a door frame is provided that
includes a case configured to fit into a complementary cavity in a
door and a retractable latch bolt movably supported within the
case. A portion of the latch bolt extends from the case in an
extended position and is withdrawn into the case in a retracted
position. The latch bolt is configured to engage a complementary
recess formed in a door frame when the latch bolt is in the
extended position and the door is in a closed position with the
latch bolt axially aligned with the recess. A handle is pivotally
supported on a hub supported in the case, the hub being operably
connected to the retractable latch bolt. The latch bolt is
retractable from the extended position by turning the door handle.
A lock-out mechanism is supported in the case and is configured to
prevent the handle from being turned when the lock-out mechanism is
in an engaged position. A key reader is supported on the case and
is connected to the lock-out mechanism. The key reader is
configured to identify properly configured keys. A lockset
controller is connected to the lock-out mechanism and the key
reader. The lockset controller is configured to disengage the
lock-out mechanism when the key reader identifies a properly
configured key. The handle lock-out mechanism also includes a cam
movably supported in the case and operably connected to a motor. A
sliding stop is movably supported in the case and includes a first
end engageable with the handle hub to prevent the handle hub and
the handle from turning. The sliding stop including a second end
engageable with a cam surface of the cam, the cam surface disposed
adjacent the second end of the sliding stop in a position to move
the sliding stop when the motor moves the cam. The motor is
configured to move the cam surface about a cam axis, the cam being
rotatably supported in the case about the cam rotational axis. The
cam rotational axis is disposed between diametrically opposed
portions of the cam surface to minimize space requirements for the
assembly.
[0014] Because the cam rotational axis is disposed between
diametrically opposed portions of the cam surface, the handle
lock-out mechanism of the present invention requires less space
within the case than prior art lock-out mechanisms.
[0015] According to another aspect of the invention, an electronic
lockset controller for use with a door-mounted lockset apparatus is
provided. The lockset controller is operable to function in a low
power sleep mode and an active mode, and comprises a core
processor, a wakeup control module, a key card control module, and
a motor drive module. The core processor is capable of controlling
the operation of electronic modules within the lockset controller
according to a set of electronic instructions stored within an
electronic memory module. The core processor includes a wakeup
signal input, a key card signal input, and a motor signal output.
The core processor is inactive when the lockset controller is in
the sleep mode and active when the lockset controller is in the
active mode. The wakeup control module is capable of switching the
operational mode of the lockset controller from the sleep mode to
the active mode upon the happening of a wakeup event. The wakeup
control includes an external wakeup signal input, an internal
wakeup signal input, and a wakeup signal output. The external
wakeup signal input receives an electronic signal that indicates
the occurrence of a wakeup event that is external to the lockset
controller, the internal wakeup signal input receives an electronic
signal that indicates the occurrence of a wakeup event that is
internal to the lockset controller, and the wakeup signal output is
connected to the wakeup signal input of the processor and transmits
a wakeup signal to the processor indicating that a wakeup event has
occurred. The key card control module acts as an interface between
a key card reader and the lockset controller such that electronic
information may be transferred between the two devices. The key
card control includes a key card signal input connected to the key
card reader for receiving an electronic signal representative of
information stored on a key card, and a key card signal output
connected to the key card signal input of the processor for
transmitting a data signal representative of the information stored
on the key card. The motor driver module is capable of driving an
electrical motor that moves a locking mechanism of the lockset
apparatus between locked and unlocked states. The motor driver
comprises a motor signal input connected to the motor signal output
of the processor for receiving a power signal representative of the
amount of power intended to drive the electrical motor, and a motor
signal output connected to the electrical motor for transmitting an
electrical signal representative of the power signal. The lockset
controller is brought out of the sleep mode and into the active
mode when the processor receives a wakeup signal. Once in active
mode, if the processor receives an authorized data signal, then it
transmits a power signal that causes the electrical motor to unlock
the locking mechanism.
BRIEF DRAWING DESCRIPTION
[0016] To better understand and appreciate the invention, refer to
the following detailed description in connection with the
accompanying drawings:
[0017] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a mortise lockset
case constructed according to the invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic lock
constructed according to the invention with the lockset case of
FIG. 1 removed for clarity;
[0019] FIG. 3 is an assembled perspective view of sliding stop,
cam, gearbox and motor components of the mortise lockset case of
FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional front view of hub,
sliding stop, cam, clutch, gearbox and motor components of the
mortise lockset case of FIG. 1 with the sliding stop disengaged
from the hub;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional front view of hub,
sliding stop, cam, clutch, gearbox and motor components of the
mortise lockset case of FIG. 1 with the sliding stop engaging the
hub;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional front view of hub,
sliding stop, cam, clutch, gearbox and motor components of the
mortise lockset case of FIG. 1 with the cam positioned to engage
the sliding stop, but with the sliding stop disengaged from the hub
and a spring component of the sliding stop compressed;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a magnified top perspective view of a key card
reader portion of the electronic lock of FIG. 2;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the key card reader
of FIG. 7;
[0025] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a card reader
module constructed according to the invention;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a lock
programmer/interrogator constructed according to the invention;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional fragmentary view of a
smart card interface unit supported in an upper wall of the key
card reader of FIG. 7;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional fragmentary view of a
tapered pin extending from a base wall of the key card reader of
FIG. 7 and supporting a read head support arm for pivotal and
gimbling movement;
[0029] FIG. 13 is an electrical schematic view of the lockset
controller 28;
[0030] FIG. 14 is an electrical schematic view of the low power
oscillator module 302;
[0031] FIG. 15 is an electrical schematic view of the real time
clock module 304;
[0032] FIG. 16 is an electrical schematic view of the high speed
oscillator module 306;
[0033] FIG. 17 is an electrical schematic view of the switch
control module 308;
[0034] FIG. 18 is an electrical schematic view of the serial port
module 310;
[0035] FIG. 19 is an electrical schematic view of the wakeup
control module 312;
[0036] FIG. 20 is an electrical schematic view of the smart key
control module 314;
[0037] FIG. 21 is an electrical schematic view of the general I/O
module 316;
[0038] FIG. 22 is an electrical schematic view of the special
function registers module 318;
[0039] FIG. 23 is an electrical schematic view of the IR power
control module 320;
[0040] FIG. 24 is an electrical schematic view of the power control
module 322;
[0041] FIG. 25 is an electrical schematic view of the motor current
sensing module 324;
[0042] FIG. 26 is an electrical schematic view of the H-bridge
motor driver module 326;
[0043] FIG. 27 is an electrical schematic view of the LED drivers
module 328;
[0044] FIG. 28 is an electrical schematic view of the battery level
sensing module 330;
[0045] FIG. 29 is an electrical schematic view of the magnetic head
reader module 332;
[0046] FIG. 30 is an electrical schematic view of the X-ram memory
module 334;
[0047] FIG. 31 is an electrical schematic view of the memory decode
module 338, and;
[0048] FIG. 32 is an electrical schematic view of the scratchpad
memory module 336.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] An electronic mortise lockset apparatus constructed
according to the invention is generally shown at 10 in FIG. 2 and
is adapted for installation in a door mounted in a doorframe. The
lockset apparatus includes a generally rectangular mortise lockset
apparatus case generally indicated at 12 in FIG. 1. The lockset
apparatus case 12 is configured to fit into a similarly shaped
complimentary cavity cut into or formed in a door. A detailed
description of suitable lockset apparatus components that may be
included in the lockset case 12 in addition to those described
below can be found in U.S. Ser. No. 08/846,842 (now U.S. Pat. No.
5,820,177 which is incorporated herein by reference).
[0050] The lockset apparatus 10 also includes a retractable latch
bolt 14 that is movably supported within the lockset case 12. A
portion of the latch bolt 14 extends from the case 12 when the
latch bolt is in an extended position and is withdrawn into the
lockset case when the latch bolt is in a retracted position. The
latch bolt 14 is configured and positioned to engage a
complimentary recess formed in a doorframe and/or a metal plate
fastened to the doorframe. The latch bolt 14 engages the recess
when the latch bolt is in the extended position and the door is in
a closed position with the latch bolt axially aligned with the
recess.
[0051] A handle hub 16 is pivotably supported in the lockset case
12 and a handle 18 is operably connected to and at partially
supported on the handle hub. The handle hub 16 is operably
connected to the retractable latch bolt 14 through a latch bolt
retraction mechanism 20. The latch bolt 14 is retractable from the
extended position by turning the door handle 18. The retraction
mechanism 20 causes the latch bolt 14 to retract from the door jam
recess into a retracted position in the lockset case 12. With the
latch bolt 14 in the retracted position the door is free to move
from the closed position to an open position.
[0052] The mortise lockset apparatus 10 also includes a
motor-driven door handle lockout mechanism 22 that includes the
mortise components generally indicated at 22 in FIGS. 1 and 3-6.
These lockout mechanism 22 components are supported in the lockset
case 12 and are configured to prevent the handle 18 from being
turned and the latch bolt 14 from being retracted when the lock-out
mechanism is in an engaged position unless the lockout mechanism is
first unlocked by inserting a properly configured key card. Absent
the insertion of a properly configured key card, the lockout
mechanism 22 of the lockset apparatus 10 will mechanically block
the handle 18 from turning.
[0053] While the present lockset apparatus embodiment 10 is
configured to receive and to be unlocked by a key card, other
embodiments may include a locking mechanism configured to receive
and be unlocked by insertion and rotation of a standard mechanical
key. Still other embodiments may include a keypad configured to
allow an operator to unlock the lockset apparatus 10 by entering a
coded entry command.
[0054] The lockout mechanism 22 prevents the handle 18 from turning
by engaging a recess 24 in the handle hub 16. In other embodiments,
however, the lockout mechanism 22 may be configured to block the
handle 18 from turning by engaging a portion of the retraction
mechanism 20 other than the handle hub 16, or by engaging some
portion of the handle 18 itself.
[0055] As is generally indicated in FIG. 2, a key card reader
module 26 is supported above the lockset case 12 and is coupled to
the lockout mechanism 22, via lockset controller 28, as will be
subsequently explained. The key card reader module 26 is configured
to signal the lockout mechanism 22 to disengage only after
receiving and identifying a properly configured key card. More
specifically, the key card reader module 26 is configured to
receive read-writeable "smart" key cards that each include a
programmable integrated circuit chip. The integrated circuit chip
in each such smart card includes a processor, random access memory
(RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). The ROM portion of the integrated
circuit chip includes a predetermined program code, as will also be
subsequently explained.
[0056] The handle lockout mechanism 22 includes a rotary cam 29
movably supported in the case lockset 12 and operably connected to
an electric motor 30 through a gearbox 32. The gearbox 32 is
configured to reduce output speed. The gearbox 32 is operably
connected between the motor 30 and the rotary cam 29 to allow the
motor to run at high speed while driving the rotary cam at a low
speed.
[0057] A sliding stop, generally indicated at 34 in FIGS. 1 and
3-6, is movably supported in the lockset case 12 and includes a
first end 36 that engages the handle hub 16 to prevent the handle
hub and the handle 18 from turning. The sliding stop 34 also
includes a bearing surface 38 that is positioned and configured to
engage a bearing surface 40 of the rotary cam 29.
[0058] The rotary cam 29 has a cam rotational axis 42 that extends
through the rotary cam between diametrically opposite portions 52,
54 of the bearing surface 40 of the rotary cam. This rotary cam
design minimizes space requirements for the lockset apparatus 10 in
the lockset case 12. The rotary cam 29 has a generally circular
disk shape and a radially-extending "lobe" 44 of the rotary cam is
formed by supporting the rotary cam on a rotational cam axis 42
that is eccentric, i.e., displaced from and parallel to a center
axis 43 of the cam. In other words, the portion of the rotary cam
29 that extends farthest, in a radial direction, from the
rotational axis 42 is the cam lobe 44.
[0059] The rotary cam 29 is positioned in the lockset case 12 such
that its bearing surface 40 is disposed adjacent the second end of
the sliding stop 34 in a position to move the sliding stop 34 when
the motor 30 turns the rotary cam. The motor 30 turns the rotary
cam 29 about the eccentric rotational axis 42 thus moving the
bearing surface 40 of the rotary cam and the cam lobe 44 about the
rotational axis. The rotary cam 29 is rotatably supported in the
lockset case 12 about the rotational axis 42 on a drive shaft 46
that extends from the gearbox 32.
[0060] When the motor 30 is activated and rotates the rotary cam 29
through reduction gears supported in the gearbox 32, the bearing
surface 40 of the rotary cam rotates and the cam lobe 44 driving
the sliding stop 34 into engagement with the handle hub 16. When
the handle hub 16 is locked in place by the sliding stop 34, it
prevents the door handle 18 from being moved and prevents the latch
bolt 14 from being withdrawn. To minimize bearing surface wear
caused by sliding contact with the sliding stop 34, the rotary cam
29 is made of an acetal resin such as DuPont Delrin.RTM..
[0061] The lockout mechanism 22 also includes a slip clutch 48
disposed between the motor 30 and the bearing surface 40 of the cam
29. The slip clutch 48 allows the motor 30 to continue running
after the sliding stop 34 has been driven to the full extent of its
travel into the complementary recess in the handle hub 16. The slip
clutch 48 is an annular disk-shaped device disposed coaxially
within a complementary circular aperture 50 in the rotary cam 29
body between diametrically opposed portions of the bearing surface
40 of the rotary cam. In other words, the rotary cam 29 body is
supported around an outer rim of the slip clutch 48 that rotates
around the rotational axis 42. The slip clutch 48 is disposed
within the rotary cam 29 body to minimize space requirements for
the lockset apparatus 10 in the lockset case 12. Because the slip
clutch mechanism is disposed coaxially within the rotary cam 29
body, the rotary cam and slip clutch take up less space within the
lockset case 12, both for installation and for movement in
operation, than they would if they were supported separately.
[0062] The slip clutch 48 includes a plastic driver spool 58, a
metal crescent washer 60 or "spring" washer 60, an annular plastic
retainer flange 62 and three metal balls 64. The driver spool 58
includes a tubular shank 66 and an annular integral flange 68 that
extends radially outward from around an upper end of the shank 66.
The rotary cam 29 includes an upper counterbore 69 formed around
the circular aperture 50 that is shaped to receive the annular
flange 68 of the driver spool 58. The integral flange 68 includes
twelve radially-spaced detents 70 formed into an underside surface
of the integral flange 68. The detents 70 are positioned to rotate
in and out of engagement with the three metal balls 64 supported in
three respective pockets formed into radially-spaced points around
an annular floor surface of the upper counterbore 69 formed into
the rotary cam 29 surrounding the circular aperture 50. The
retainer flange 62 is configured to be force fit over a lower end
of the driver spool 58 shank 66 to hold the rotary cam 29 on the
slip clutch 48. The rotary cam 29 includes a lower counterbore 71
formed around the circular aperture 50 to receive the retainer
flange 62. The crescent washer 60 is supported around the shank 66
and between the retainer flange 62 and a bottom surface of the
rotary cam 29. In this position the crescent washer 60 biases the
retainer flange 62, shank 66 and integral flange 68 downward. The
biasing force urges the detents 70 into engagement with the three
metal balls 64 which causes the rotary cam 29 to rotate with the
slip clutch 48. However, the driver spool 58 and integral flange
detents 70 can move upwards against the biasing if sufficient force
is applied to cause the slip clutch 48 to "hop" over the metal
balls 64. This allows the motor 30 to continue turning the driver
spool 58 when the rotary cam 29 rotation is impeded.
[0063] The sliding stop 34 includes a spring 80 configured and
positioned to store energy when the sliding stop is either blocked
or hung-up by friction as it is being moved into or out of
engagement with the handle hub 16 as shown in FIG. 6. The spring 80
urges a slider portion 85 of the sliding stop 34 into the commanded
position whenever such a blockage or hang-up is finally overcome or
removed as shown in FIG. 5. Both the spring 80 and a portion of the
slider portion 85 are disposed within a sliding stop body 88. The
sliding stop body 88 includes a slider receptacle 87 that slidably
retains the slider portion 85 and a spring chamber 86 that houses
the spring 80.
[0064] The spring 80 is a coil type spring disposed between two
facing spring engagement surfaces 82, 84 in the spring chamber 86
of the sliding stop 34. A forward one 82 of the engagement surfaces
82, 84 is disposed at one end of the spring chamber 86 on an inner
cutout region of the slider portion 85 of the sliding stop 34. A
rear one 84 of the engagement surfaces 82, 84 is disposed at an end
of the spring chamber 86 opposite the forward engagement surface 82
on an inner wall of the sliding stop body 88. The spring 80
therefore biases the slider portion 85 toward the handle hub
16.
[0065] The sliding stop body 88 also includes a cam receptacle 90
formed into a lower surface 92 of the body 88. The bearing surface
38 of the sliding stop 34 is disposed on a circumferential inner
wall of the cam receptacle 90 that has a circular shape with a
diameter slightly greater than that of the outer circumferential
bearing surface 40 of the rotary cam 29. The inner wall diameter is
slightly larger so that the rotary cam 29 can be received into the
cam receptacle 90 for relative rotational sliding engagement. The
cam receptacle 90 cooperates with the rotary cam 29 to convert
rotational motion of the rotary cam into translational motion of
the sliding stop 34 between an engaged position shown in FIG. 5 and
a disengaged position shown in FIG. 4.
[0066] The handle hub 16 is reversible in that it is configured to
be axially reversed or flip-flopped in the lockset case 12. The
handle hub 16 is configured to be reversible so that the mortise
lockset apparatus 10 can be adapted to applications where it may be
necessary or desirable to lock out an interior handle 19 rather
than the exterior handle 18 as shown in the drawings, i.e., to
allow an installer to select whether the lockout feature will
lockout the inside or the outside door handle 18.
[0067] The electronic mortise lockset apparatus 10 also includes a
retractable deadbolt 98 that is movably supported within the
lockset case 12. An outer portion of the deadbolt 98 extends
horizontally from the lockset case 12 when the deadbolt is in an
extended position and is withdrawn within the lockset case when the
deadbolt is in a retracted position. The deadbolt 98 is positioned
such that the outer portion of the deadbolt engages a complimentary
recess formed in the doorframe, and/or a metal plate fastened to
the doorframe, when the deadbolt 98 is in the extended position and
the door is in a closed position.
[0068] The lockset also includes a hand operable lever 100 that is
pivotably supported on and extends generally perpendicularly from a
side wall 102 of the lockset case 12 opposite the handle 18. The
lever 100 is mounted on a spindle 104 that is supported
transversely in the lockset case 12, the spindle having a generally
continuous square cross-section along its length. The spindle 104
is operably connected to the retractable deadbolt 98, the deadbolt
being retractable from the extended position by turning the lever
100. In other words, the spindle 104 is connected to the deadbolt
98 and moves whenever the deadbolt moves.
[0069] A deadbolt position indicator having a microswitch 106
mounted on the lockset motherboard 78 is also included. The spindle
104 passes through an aperture 108 in the motherboard 78 and turns
a spindle-mounted cam 110 that is mounted on the spindle 104
adjacent a point along the length of the spindle 104 where the
spindle 104 passes through the motherboard aperture 108. The
microswitch 106 is supported on the motherboard 78 in a position
where a radially protruding lobe 112 of the spindle-mounted cam 110
actuates the microswitch when the spindle 104 is turned. The
spindle mounted cam 110 is rotationally oriented such that the lobe
112 mechanically depresses the microswitch 106 when the deadbolt 98
moves either into or out of its engaged position. In response to
depression, the microswitch 106 transmits a deadbolt position
indicating signal to logic circuitry of the lockset controller 28
indicating either that the deadbolt 98 is engaged or retracted, as
will be subsequently explained. The deadbolt position indicating
signal allows the lockset controller 28 to monitor deadbolt
position.
[0070] The lockset apparatus 10 also includes a fire blocker
feature that prevents fire from spreading through the complimentary
cavity in the door. As shown in FIG. 2, the apparatus 10 includes a
zinc chassis 116 that mounts against an inner side or interior
surface of a door. A steel front plate 118 mounts against an outer
side of the door opposite the chassis 116. A steel outer box frame
114 mounts over the steel front plate 118. Cosmetic outer and inner
steel lockset covers or face plates 120, 122 are fastened over the
outer box frame 114 and the zinc chassis 116, respectively. Four
fastener receivers 123 extend integrally from a back surface of
upper and lower flanges of the outer box frame 114 and are aligned
with holes in the front plate 118 and corresponding holes formed
through the width of the door. Four chassis mounting fasteners 124
are received into the respective fastener receivers 123 and pass
through the chassis 116, the door and the front plate 118. The
chassis mounting fasteners 124 and receivers 123 cooperate to
connect and hold the chassis 116 and outer box frame 114 together.
They also secure the chassis 116 and box frame 114 to the door by
clamping them against the respective inner and outer door surfaces
and suspending them from the fastener receivers 123. With all
handles and hardware attached, the outer box frame 114 and steel
front plate 118 leave no openings through the door for burning
gases to pass.
[0071] The fire blocker feature includes upper and lower flat
rectangular steel washer plates 126 disposed on the inner side of
the door between the chassis 116 and the inner surface of the door.
Each washer plate 126 includes two openings 128 for receiving
respective shaft portions of two of the chassis mounting fasteners
124. These two holes align with the two holes in the chassis 116
that the chassis mounting fasteners 124 pass through. These
openings are smaller in diameter than head portions of the chassis
mounting fasteners 124 so that the washer plate 126 prevents the
fastener heads from being pulled through the outer side of the door
if fire burns or melts the chassis 116 away. Two screws 129 secure
each washer plate 126 and a cosmetic end cap 131 to the chassis
116.
[0072] In the present embodiment the washer plate 126 is made of
steel but may be made of any material that is relatively more fire
resistant than the chassis 116 and is strong enough to support
fastener heads under axial loads. The washer plates 126 help
prevent fire from gaining entry to a room through the complementary
cavity in the door. They do so by holding the front plate 118 and
box frame 114 in place over the complementary cavity even after the
chassis 116 has been burned and/or melted away.
[0073] The key card reader module 26 is a snap together unit that
includes a generally rectangular molded plastic upper module
component 132 including an upper wall of a key card receptacle 134
and a generally rectangular molded plastic lower module component
136 connected to the upper module component and including a lower
wall of the key card receptacle 134. The key card reader module
also includes a magnetic card reader assembly 138, a smart card
interface unit 139, an LED display module 140 and a ribbon cable
142 that provides electrical current paths between components of
the card reader module 26 and the lockset controller 28, as will be
further explained.
[0074] The upper and lower module components 132, 136 each include
four snap-lock detents 144, 146. The four snap-lock detents 146 of
the lower module component 136 engage the four snap-lock detents
144 of the upper module component 132 when the two module
components 132, 136 are pressed together. The four detents 146 of
the lower module component 136 are disposed on a lower surface of
barbs 148 formed at the upper ends of each of four elongated
rectangular arms 150 that extend integrally upward from adjacent
four corners 166, 168 of the lower module 136, respectively, and
are shaped and positioned to fit through corresponding slits 152 in
the upper module component 132. The four detents 144 of the upper
module component 132 are disposed on a rectangular, integrally
upwardly extending rectangular rim 154 of the upper module
component 132. The snap lock detents 144, 146 connect the upper and
lower module components 132, 136 together by snap fit engagement
when the components 132, 136 are pressed together during assembly.
More specifically, when the module components 132, 136 are pressed
together, the barbs 148 pass through the slits 152 and snap over
the rectangular rim 154, thereby preventing the module components
132, 136 from being pulled apart. The snap lock detents 144, 146
obviate the need for any additional fasteners to hold the key card
reader module 26 together.
[0075] The key card reader module 26 includes dual function
components that further simplify its assembly and operation. One
such dual function component is the LED display module 140. The
primary function of the LED display module 140 is to display
lockset apparatus operation and status information to individuals
operating the lockset apparatus 10. The lockset controller 28
causes the LED display module 140 to selectively illuminate the red
LED 96, yellow LED 156, or green LED 158 when the lockset apparatus
is locked, malfunctioning, or open, respectively. The three colored
LEDs 96, 156, 158 are supported in an upwardly extending front
panel 160 of the LED display module 140.
[0076] In addition to displaying information, the LED display
module 140 is also configured to anchor the ribbon cable 142 and
the smart card interface unit 139 to the key card reader module 26.
The LED display module 140 includes a generally U-shaped
rectangular support frame 162 that extends horizontally from a
bottom edge of the front panel 160 of the LED display module 140.
The support frame 162 has an aft cross-bar 164 that clamps a
portion of the ribbon cable 142 against the upper wall of the upper
module component 132 of the key card reader module 26 when the LED
bar is mounted on the key card reader module 26. As best shown in
FIG. 11, the cross-bar 164 also retains the smart card interface
unit 139 in a generally rectangular aperture 133 formed in the
upper wall of the upper module component 132.
[0077] The LED display module 140 is mounted on the key card reader
module 26 by first sliding opposite corners 166, 168 of the aft
cross bar into a pair of complementary slots formed into a pair of
rectangular protrusions 170 that integrally extend upward from the
upper wall of the upper module component 132. The front panel 160
of the LED display module 140 is then pressed downward against the
upper module component 132 until a pair of snap-lock detents 172
formed into a front surface of the front panel 160 engage a pair of
snap-lock detents defined by respective barbs 174 formed at upper
ends of respective upwardly extending elongated rectangular arms
176 that extend integrally upward from a front edge 178 of the
upper module component 132 of the key card reader module 26.
[0078] The key card reader module 26 is configured to read magnetic
strips affixed to magnetic key cards and to communicate with
integrated circuit chips embedded on smart key cards. To read
magnetic key cards the magnetic card reader assembly 138 of the key
card reader module 26 includes a magnetic read head 180 configured
to read magnetic strips of magnetic key cards. The read head 180 is
supported at one end of a generally rectangular elongated metal
read head support arm 182. The read head 180 and support arm 182
are received into a complementary-shaped trough 184 formed in a
bottom surface 185 of the lower module component 136. The trough is
defined by an intersection of rectangular ribs 186 that integrally
extend downward from the bottom surface of the lower module
component 136. The read head 180 is positioned to extend partially
through a rectangular aperture (not shown) formed in the bottom
surface of the lower module component 136 at a forward end of the
trough. As is best shown in FIG. 12, the read head support arm 182
includes a generally cylindrical extension 187 that integrally
protrudes upward from around a generally circular aperture 189
formed through an end of the support arm 182 opposite the read head
180. The aperture 189 and cylindrical extension 187 are shaped to
receive and to seat part way down the length of a tapered pin 191
that integrally extends from the bottom surface of the lower module
component 136 within the trough 184. The tapered pin 191, aperture
189 and cylindrical extension 187 are shaped to support the read
head support arm 182 in such a way as to allow the support arm 182
and read head to gimbal, i.e, to pivot longitudinally and roll
laterally. The up and down longitudinal pivoting action permitted
by this arrangement allows the read head to better accommodate
cards of varying thicknesses. The rolling action allows the read
head to lay flat on the magnetic strip of warped cards.
[0079] Another dual function component of the key card reader
module 26 is a biasing spring 188. The biasing spring 188 is a coil
spring that is supported in such a way that it biases the read head
180 support arm 182 upward, i.e., pivotally upward about the
tapered pin. This upward bias continuously urges the read head 180
upward through the rectangular aperture to maintain contact with
the magnetic strip of magnetic key cards that are individually
inserted into the key card receptacle 134. This upward biasing
force also serves to hold the read head support arm 182 in place on
the lower module component 136 without the need for fasteners. To
accomplish this, opposite ends of a wire forming the coil spring
188 are formed into a pair of generally straight, elongated "legs"
190, 192. A first leg 190 of the pair of legs is anchored against
the bottom surface of the lower module component 136 by a
rectangular tab 194 that extends laterally from one of the
downwardly extending ribs. A second leg 192 of the pair of legs is
engaged against the arm 182 and applies spring 188 force to bias
the arm 182 upwardly as described above. The second leg 192
includes a right-angle bend 198 adjacent its distal end that
extends upwardly into a small aperture 200 formed in the arm 182.
The coil portion 202 of the spring is seated coaxially on a post
204 that extends laterally from a rectangular tab 206. The
rectangular tab 206 extends integrally downward from one of the
downwardly extending ribs. An end portion 208 of the first leg 190
is bent to extend downward and outward from the lower module
component. The distal end 210 of the end portion 208 is positioned
to contact the outer box frame 114 to electrically ground the card
reader module 26.
[0080] The lockset apparatus 10 also includes a lockset apparatus
programmer/interrogator, generally shown at 212 in FIG. 10, for
communicating with an electronic lockset apparatus 10. The lockset
apparatus programmer/interrogator 212 includes an interrogator key
card 214 comprising a circuit card that includes surface contacts
216 positioned to align with corresponding contacts of an
electronic lockset apparatus smart card reader module 26 within a
reader module when the interrogator key card is inserted into the
reader module. A serial port cable connector 218 is also mounted on
the circuit card. The circuit card includes current paths or
tracings 220 that electrically connect the surface contacts 216 to
connector pins of the cable connector 218. The lockset apparatus
programmer/interrogator 212 also includes a serial cable 222 that
has a serial port connector 224 at one end that connects to the
cable connector of the interrogator key card and a second serial
port connector 226 at the other end that is configured to connect
to a microcomputer 228. The serial cable 222 includes wires that
connect the serial port connectors 218, 226 at each end of the
cable 222 to connect the tracings 220 of the interrogator key card
214 to corresponding circuits within the microcomputer 228. The
microcomputer 228 is programmed to interrogate, apply power to
and/or program an electronic lockset apparatus 10 through the
interrogator key card 214 once the interrogator key card 214 has
been inserted into the lockset apparatus 10.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 13, the lockset apparatus 10 includes a
lockset controller 28 which has logic circuitry connected to
numerous electronic devices, including the lockout mechanism 22 and
the key card reader module 26. The lockset controller is a custom
made integrated circuit having many electrical components,
including a low power oscillator module 302, a real time clock
module 304, a high speed oscillator module 306, a switch control
module 308, a serial port control module 310, a wakeup control
module 312, a smart key control module 314, a general I/O module
316, special function registers 318, an IR module power control
module 320, a power control module 322, a motor current sensing
module 324, a motor driver module 326, a LED driver module 328, a
battery level sensing module 330, a magnetic head reader module
332, an X-ram memory module 334, a scratchpad memory module 336, a
flash memory decode module 338, and a core processor 340.
Generally, the lockset controller 28 operates in a low power
consumption sleep mode until awakened by one of several wakeup
events. At which point, the lockset controller 28 executes a series
of commands that are determined by the particular event which woke
the lockset controller up and certain conditions relating to the
various states of components throughout the lockset controller.
Upon executing these commands, the lockset controller may take
control of components located outside of the controller, such as
the LED display module 140, the lockout mechanism 22, or the key
card reader 26.
[0082] As seen in FIG. 14, low power oscillator 302 is a low
frequency, low power consuming oscillator which produces a
synchronous signal of approximately 32.768 kHz and is generally
comprised of a crystal 350, a crystal bias 352, and an output 354.
A particular voltage is applied to the crystal which causes it to
vibrate at a generally consistent frequency, as is commonly known
in the art. This vibrational frequency can be precisely tuned
through use of the crystal bias 352, thereby allowing the crystal
to produce a particular frequency. This frequency is applied to the
output 354, which is connected to both the real time clock, 304 and
the high speed oscillator 306. It is important to note, the low
power oscillator uses very little power, on the order of a couple
.mu.A, and is useful in achieving the stated goal of decreasing the
overall power consumption of the lockset controller 28,
particularly when the lockset controller is in the sleep mode, as
will be subsequently explained.
[0083] The real time clock 304 is electrically connected to the low
power oscillator 302, the wakeup control 312, the special function
registers 318, and the switch control 308, and basically functions
as a counter which issues wakeup signals to the wakeup control 312,
as seen in FIG. 15. The real time clock 304 is generally comprised
of several registers 360, an address/data bus 362, additional
inputs 364, and an output 366. The registers store a variety of
information, such as a running count of the number of times the
32.8 kHz signal is received on one of the additional inputs 364 and
the predetemiined number of signal inputs the real time clock will
receive before issuing a wakeup request. It is important to note,
the registers 360 are software programmable such that the frequency
with which output 366 issues wakeup request signals is
programmable. This feature allows the operator to determine how
frequently the real time clock issues an interrupt which wakes the
lockset controller out of sleep mode. When the real time clock is
receiving information, the address/data bus is used to determine
the address of the selected real time clock register 360. However,
the same bus may also be used to transmit data found in a selected
register, as determined by the state of a write enable pin, also an
additional input 364. The real time clock 304 is a counter based on
the signal generated by the low power oscillator 302 and therefore
is not concerned with any actual time. The real time clock 304 is
reset when the batteries are changed, the lockset controller 28 is
programmed, or when certain other events occur such as power on
reset.
[0084] When the lockset controller 28 is not in sleep mode, the
high speed oscillator 306 receives a slow signal from the low power
oscillator, multiplies that signal, and provides the core processor
with a high speed clock signal, as seen in FIG. 16. The high speed
oscillator is generally a non-programmable, signal multiplier and
is generally comprised of a clock input 370, an oscillator enable
input 372, a signal multiplier 374, and a high speed clock output
376. The signal multiplier receives the low frequency clock input
370 and, if enabled by the oscillator enable signal, multiplies
that signal by some fixed number to produce a high speed clock
signal which is fed to the core processor 340. If the oscillator
enable signal is low, which is indicative of the sleep mode, the
multiplier will neither multiply nor pass the original signal to
the core processor and thereby acts as an AND gate which disables
the core processor by denying it a clock signal. If the oscillator
enable signal is high and the low frequency signal is multiplied by
some factor, 224 in the preferred embodiment, the newly obtained
high frequency clock signal is put on the high speed clock output
376 and drives the core processor.
[0085] As seen in FIG. 17, the switch control module 308 is
connected to the wakeup control 312, the real time clock 304,
various electromechanical switches, and the special function
registers 318 and generally includes inputs 390, switch power
control 392, switch debounce control 394, status register outputs
396, and wakeup control outputs 398. The switch control 308
receives signals from various sources, such as microswitch 106, and
debounces these signals such that spikes and anomalies in the
signals are not mistakenly interpreted as positive signals and
accidentally wakeup the lockset controller 28. The inputs 390 are
each connected to a separate mechanical switch which may act as a
separate wakeup source. Each of these inputs is connected to the
switch power control 392 which acts as a power pull up and
therefore reduces power consumption by switching the state of the
signal as opposed to maintaining the signal in a constant power
consuming state. The switch control module 308 periodically checks
the status of the switch states, approximately 8 times per second
in the preferred embodiment. The switch power control 392 is
connected to the switch debounce control 394 which acts as a
protective measure to prevent noise and other signal anomalies from
triggering an erroneous output to wakeup control 312. When a change
of state occurs at the switch power control, the switch debounce
control pauses a certain amount of time and then rechecks the state
of the signal to make sure that the change was not due to some
temporary condition. It is important to note, the amount of time
paused during the debounce is programmable and may therefore be
adjusted for different types of switches, some of which may be less
reliable than others and therefore require more time to confirm a
change of state. Once the wakeup event signal has been confirmed,
signals are sent via the outputs 396 to the special function
registers 318 to update the change in status and signals are sent
via outputs 398 to the wakeup control 312.
[0086] The serial port module 310 is a multiplexed device which
allows the core processor 340 to communicate with a multitude of
serial devices via a single transmit and a single receive serial
line, as seen in FIG. 18. The serial port 310 is connected to
several devices, such as the smart key control 314, the core
processor 340, the special function registers 318, the wakeup
control 312, and an external serial port, and is generally
comprised of receive inputs 400, multiplexer 402, receive line 404,
transmit line 406, control lines 408, demultiplexer 410, and
transmit outputs 412. The receive inputs 400 each connect a serial
device to the multiplexer 402 such that they may communicate one at
a time with the core processor 340. These devices include an
external serial port, which may be used by devices such as the
lockset programmer/interrogator 212, a smart key control, an
external IR receiving device, and an auxiliary device, each of
which is vying for time to use receive line 404 and gain the
attention of the core processor. Once the receive line 404 is
active, indicating a serial device is trying to communicate with
the core processor 340, the processor begins to execute a series of
commands from an external program, as will be explained later.
These commands are not received over receive line 404, however, the
results of executing these commands may be carried out over the
transmit line 406. To determine where the serial activity
originated, the core processor interrogates each serial device one
at a time and then begins to communicate with the active device via
demultiplexer 410. The control lines 408 act as a serial port
enable and determine if the multiplexer 402 or demultiplexer 410 is
active. It should be noted, that while not shown in the drawing,
the smart key device is able to both transmit and receive over the
same serial line.
[0087] As seen in FIG. 19, the wakeup control module 312 receives
signals from various sources and wakes the lockset controller 28
out of the sleep mode accordingly. The wakeup control 312 is
generally comprised of a series of inputs 380, an edge detection
component 382, a wakeup signal generator 384, and several outputs
386. Inputs 380 carry signals generated from several sources,
including the real time clock 304, the switch control 308, an
external IR port, an external serial port, and the power on reset,
all of which transmit a signal to the wakeup control indicating
that some event has occurred. For example, when the real time clock
304 transmits a wakeup request signal on its output 366, that
signal is received by the wakeup control which proceeds to wake up
the lockset controller 28. Likewise, signals transmitted by the
various switches, such as microswitch 106, etc., indicating an
event such as the insertion of a smart key card or the movement of
the deadbolt 98 also cause the wakeup control to awake the lockset
controller 28. It is important to note, the wakeup control 312 is
operable by multiple wakeup sources, any one of which can wake the
core processor 340 out of the sleep mode. Inputs 380 pass through
the edge detection component 382, which detects a change of state
by looking for either rising or falling edges. If a change of state
is detected, the edge detection component 382 passes the signal to
the wakeup signal generator 384. The wakeup signal generator also
receives an oscillator enable signal, which prevents the wakeup
control from waking up, and consequently resetting, the lockset
controller 28 if the controller is already awake. Lastly, outputs
386 are connected to the core processor 340 and supply an analog
power enable and reset signal, which in effect, acts like chip
enable and register reset signals, respectively.
[0088] The smart key control 314 is the interface which allows a
standard ISO smart key card to communicate with the lockset
controller 28 and is connected to the key card reader 26, the
serial port control 310, the power control 322, the special
function registers 318, and the core processor 340, as seen in FIG.
20. The smart key control generally includes smart card lines 420,
level shifter 422, smart key clock control 424, level shifter lines
426, and clock inputs 428. A smart key card has a processor,
instructions stored on ROM, and memory, however, it does not have
any type of energy storage device or clock signal generator.
Therefore, in order for the processor on the smart key card to
operate, the smart key control 314 must supply the smart key card
with power and a clock signal. Smart card lines 420 supply the
smart key card with a power signal, a clock signal, a smart card
reset, and provide transmit and receive lines for serial
communication between the smart key card and the smart key control
314. Once the smart key card is inserted into the key card reader
26 and supplied the necessary operating signals, the processor on
the card begins executing instructions which are contained in the
smart key card ROM. Information written to the memory of the smart
key card is transmitted via the smart card transmit line and
information which is retrieved from the card memory is transmitted
via the smart card receive line. Level shifter 422 is used as an
interface between the signals of the smart key card and those used
throughout the rest of the lockset controller 28. Often times,
smart key cards require a different operating voltage than the rest
of the lockset controller circuitry, and therefore require the
level shifter to supply a particular voltage to the smart key card.
Additionally, in order to conform the voltage levels of the smart
key card signals to those of the lockset controller 28, the level
shifter applies an appropriate DC voltage to the smart key card
signals, thereby shifting the signal up or down as needed. Similar
to the need for various operating voltages, the smart key control
314 must be able to provide different clock signals, as all smart
key cards do not operate at the same frequency. The task of
providing various frequency clock signals is handled by the smart
key clock control 424. It is important to note, the smart key clock
control is software programmable such that when enabled, it may
selectively provide a clock signal based on a clock select input,
consequently the smart key control is able to communicate with
smart key cards having a wide range of operating parameters. One of
the clock inputs 428 is the clock select signal which determines
the frequency of the clock signal sent to the smart key card. The
remaining clock inputs consist of a clock enable signal and a `B`
clock, which is a periodic signal provided by the core processor
340. Level shifter lines 426 include a smart card power supply, a
smart card power control, a smart card reset, and serial transmit
and receive lines. The smart card power supply is received from the
power control 322, while the smart card power control is received
from the special function register 318. The serial transmit and
receive lines are connected to the serial port 310, and therefore
communicate with the core processor 340 through the serial port as
previously described.
[0089] As seen in FIG. 21, the general I/O module 316 is connected
to the receive inputs 400 and transmit outputs 412 of the serial
port control 310 and the core processor 340. The general I/O 316 is
an input/output device which allows the core processor to use
special communication lines, for example the IR transmit and
receive lines, as general I/O.
[0090] The special function registers 318 are a collection of
registers which store control and status data for virtually all of
the components of the lockset controller 28, as seen in FIG. 22.
The core processor 340 both writes to and reads from the special
function registers 318, which generally comprises core input and
output lines 440, register decoding module 442, and registers
444-456. The core input and output lines are comprised of several
buses and control lines. There are three 8-bit buses which connect
registers of the core processor 340 to the special function
registers 318, such that the processor is able to place an address
on a bus and retrieve the contents of that address. In addition,
the core processor sends write enable, read enable, and register
enable signals to the special function registers 318 which allows
the processor to write new contents to the special function
registers, read contents from the special function registers, and
enable the registers in general, respectively. The register
decoding module 442 is used to decode requests from the core
processor 340 and put data gathered from the special function
registers onto one of the core lines 440, as previously mentioned.
Register 444 is used in conjunction with register 446 and together
are connected to the register decoding module 442 by a
bi-directional and uni-directional 8-bit bus, respectively.
Register 444 stores the address of the particular real time clock
register which is to be accessed, while register 446 is used to
store control data relating to the real time clock 304. Registers
448, 452, and 456 are control registers each connected to the
register decoding module 442 by a uni-directional 8-bit bus that
only allows these registers to receive information. The first
control register 448 includes information pertaining to the motor
drivers 326, the LED drivers 328, and the serial port control 310.
The second control register 452 is concerned with the operation of
the switch control 308, the IR power control 320, and the smart key
control 314. The third control register 456 is related to the flash
memory decode 338, the flash memory, and the smart key control 314.
Registers 450 and 454 are status registers, each of which is
connected to the register decoding module 442 via a bi-directional
8-bit bus. Status register 450 both writes to and receives
information from the core processor 340, and includes information
on the current status of the smart card switch, the deadbolt switch
(microswitch 106), the motor switches, the battery level sensing
module 330, and the motor current sensing module 324. Like register
450, wakeup register 454 also contains information relating to the
status of various components and is periodically updated to reflect
any changes in that status. Wakeup register 454 includes
information on the smart card switch, the deadbolt switch, the
handle switch, any serial data received, IR wakeup signals, and the
real time clock wakeup request signals.
[0091] As seen in FIG. 23, the IR power control 320 is connected to
the special function registers 318 and an external IR communication
device. When the lockset controller 28 is in sleep mode, the
electrical power supplied by the IR power control 320 is very low,
thereby reducing energy consumption. When the lockset controller 28
is woken from sleep mode, sufficient energy becomes available such
that the IR power control 320 enables the external IR communication
device to communicate with other external devices.
[0092] The power control 322 is a regulated voltage source which
produces an accurate reference voltage signal for use throughout
the lockset controller 28. As seen in FIG. 24, the power control
322 is connected to the special function registers 318, an external
voltage reference source, the smart key control 314, and several
other components of the lockset controller 28. The power control
322 generally includes inputs 460, band gap voltage reference 462,
power selector 464, reference selection trim 466, smart key control
power output 468, and programmable reference voltage output 470.
The band gap reference 462 produces an accurate 1 V signal which is
sent to the reference selection trim 466 and limits the amount of
input current such that the power consumption is maintained at a
low level. The reference selection trim receives a 3-bit reference
select signal from the second control register 452 via inputs 460.
This reference select signal allows for software controlled
tweaking of the reference signal such that it more accurately
approaches 1.000 V. The resultant reference signal is sent to
components throughout the lockset controller 28, including motor
current sensing module 324, battery level sensing module 330, and
the magnetic head reader module 332. Power selector 464 receives a
smart key power selector signal which instructs the power selector
to connect the output 468 to an appropriate voltage. As previously
mentioned, various smart key cards operate at different voltage
levels and thereby require card readers to have the ability to
provide both voltages. The power selector 464 satisfies this
requirement.
[0093] As seen in FIG. 25, the motor current sensing module 324 is
a current threshold detector which is used to sense if the amount
of electric current being sent from the motor drivers 326 to the
electric motor 30 has exceeded a certain value. It is important to
note, the motor current sensing module 324 can determine when a
motor driven component of the door handle lockout mechanism 22
reaches an end position by a change in voltage due to the amount of
current being sent to the electric motor 30, thereby eliminating
the need for component position determining mechanical switches.
The motor current sensing module 324 is connected to the special
function registers 318, the switch control 308, the power control
322, and the motor drivers 326, and generally comprises a reference
voltage input 480, a motor input 482, an analog power enable 484, a
current detector 486, and a motor current output 488. The analog
power enable is generated when the wake up control recognizes some
wake up event and empowers the motor current sensing module
accordingly. The reference voltage input 480 gives the motor
current sensing module a precise, known voltage, as previously
explained, against which it may compare a voltage indicative of the
motor current. Motor input 482 is a voltage signal representative
of the amount of electrical-current being sent to the motor, as
will be subsequently explained. The current detector 486 generally
includes a divider and an analog comparitor and utilizes the
reference voltage and the motor input to determine when a component
of the lockout mechanism 32, driven by electric motor 30, has
reached a limiting point and is obstructed from traveling further.
The divider within the current detector 486 divides the motor input
signal by a certain multiple and feeds the divided signal to an
analog comparitor. The analog comparitor, often utilizing
operational amplifiers, receives both the divided voltage signal
and the reference signal and produces an output based on which
signal is higher. Setting the division multiple to a certain value
allows the current sensing module 324 to determine when the motor
input 482, and hence the motor current, has exceeded a certain
level, thereby indicating a point at which the lock can travel no
further. The output of the current detector's comparison is put on
motor current output 488 and sent to status register 450 of the
special function registers 318.
[0094] Motor driver 326 is an H-bridge motor driver which drives
the electrical motor 30 connected to the door handle lockout
mechanism 22 via a pair of current sinks and sources, thereby
allowing a nearly constant supply of electrical current and hence
torque output regardless of the battery power level. The motor
driver 326 is connected to the special function registers 318,
motor current sensing 324, and the electrical motor 30, and
generally includes motor control inputs 500, H-bridge decoder 502,
current sink drivers 504, current source drivers 506, and terminals
508-514. A 2-bit motor control signal is sent from the first
control register 448 to the H-bridge decoder 502 via control inputs
500. The 2-bit control signal is capable of choosing one of three
acceptable operating states, which include having all of the
terminals 508-514 off, only terminals 508 and 512 on, or only
terminals 510 and 514 on. The H-bridge decoder receives and decodes
the control signal and turns on the appropriate current sink and
source drivers 504 and 506 accordingly. Terminals 508, 512 and 510,
514 operate in pairs, so as to draw current across electric motor
30. If the H-bridge decoder 502 receives a control signal which
represents the state where all of the terminals are closed, then
there is no current through electric motor 30 and the motor remains
off. Where the H-bridge decoder receives a signal turning on
terminals 508 and 512, a conductive path is formed through battery
518, terminal 508, motor 30, terminal 512, resistor 520, and
ground. Such a conductive path operates the motor in a certain
direction. Similarly, when the H-bridge decoder receives a signal
which turns on the other pair of terminals 510 and 514, a different
conductive path is created through battery 518, terminal 510,
electric motor 30, terminal 514, resistor 520, and ground, which
operates the motor in the opposite direction. Accordingly, the
control signal sent from the first control register of the special
function registers determines which direction, if at all, the motor
is operated. It is important to note, that the use of current sinks
and sources allows the motor driver 326 to deliver a constant
current to the motor 30 and therefore obtain a nearly constant
torque output curve. The current sent to the motor affects the
voltage across resistor 520, which is monitored by output 482 of
the motor current sensing module 324, as previously explained.
[0095] As seen in FIG. 27, LED driver 328 is also operative via a
series of electrical current sink drivers, and is generally
comprised of control inputs 530, current sink drivers 532, and
terminals 534. Like the motor driver 326, the LED driver 328
receives control information from the first control register 448 of
the special function registers 318, which causes the current sink
drivers to turn on certain terminals. The particular current sink
drivers, whose operation is controlled by the control register,
drive the external LEDs of the LED display module 140. Again, it is
important to note, the LED driver can deliver a constant current
source to the LEDs, thereby achieving a constant brightness
throughout the life of the battery.
[0096] The battery level sensing 330 is connected to the power
control 322 and the special function registers-318, as seen in FIG.
28. The battery level sensing module uses the reference voltage
provided by the power control 322 to determine the present battery
power of the system and stores the result of that comparison in the
status register 450. The battery level sensing module 330 generally
includes a reference voltage input 540, a battery level input 542,
a voltage level detector 544, and a battery level output 546. As
seen with the motor current sensing module 324, the voltage level
detector 544 will divide the battery level input signal 542 by a
known factor such that the divided battery level signal and the
reference voltage signal may be fed to an analog comparitor. An
analog comparitor will compare the two signals and issue an output
based on which signal is higher. Consequently, when the battery
level falls to a level where the divided signal is lower than the
reference voltage, the battery level output 546 will send a signal
to a status register indicating the low battery level condition.
This low battery condition may then be conveyed to an operator via
yellow LED 156, as previously explained.
[0097] The magnetic head reader module 332 is used in conjunction
with the external magnetic card reader assembly 138 and receives
the magnetic information stored on the card and read by the
magnetic card reader, as seen in FIG. 29. The magnetic reader
module 332 is primarily comprised of maghead inputs 550, reference
voltage source input 552, X-gain amplifier 554, voltage level
detector 556, and level change output 558. The maghead inputs 550
are connected to the magnetic card reader assembly 138 and deliver
the magnetic information stored on the card to the magnetic head
reader 332. As seen with the motor current sensing 324 and the
battery level sensing 330, the magnetic head reader module uses the
reference voltage signal from the power control 322 as a frame of
reference to which it compares the information from the magnetic
card. The X-gain amplifier 554 is a software programmable amplifier
and may therefore be adjusted according to the particular magnetic
card reader used. To increase the noise immunity of the magnetic
head reader, the voltage level detector 556 has programmable
hysteresis. Therefore, when comparing the magnetic information to
the reference voltage signal, small spikes in the signal will not
be misinterpreted as a positive signal. It should be noted, the
higher the gain of the amplifier, more hysteresis tolerance should
be allowed. When the voltage level detector 556 detects a change of
state in the magnetic input signal, it informs the core processor
340 which monitors for changes of magnetic signal states.
[0098] There are two sources of writable memory internal to the
lockset controller 28 and one source of memory external. Both the
X-ram memory 334 and the scratchpad memory 336 are located on the
lockset controller 28, while the flash memory is external. The
X-ram and flash memory are best explained concurrently due to their
interdependence with each other. Referring to FIG. 31, the flash
memory is a 64 k byte EPROM which stores the main code for the core
processor 34Q and is connected to the memory decode 338 via control
lines 580 and buses 576 and 578. Neither the flash memory nor the
X-ram memory 334 can be simultaneously written to and read from.
Therefore, when it is necessary to write information to the flash
memory, the processor 340 must switch control from the flash to the
X-ram memory, such that the processor is now receiving instructions
from the X-ram and writing to the flash. A particular
characteristic of the core processor 340 is that it has both a data
read and write enable line, but only one program read enable line.
All three enable lines are connected to both the flash and X-ram
memories via the memory control decoder 594. When the processor is
executing instructions from the flash, the memory control decoder
connects the single program read enable signal to the flash and the
two data enable signals, read and write, to the X-ram. When control
is switched from the flash to the X-ram, the memory control decoder
routes the two data enable signals to the flash and the single
program enable signal to the X-ram. As will be subsequently
described, signals to the flash memory must pass through level
shifter 582 to ensure signal compatibility. In order to switch
control from the flash to the X-ram, a pointer is placed in the
code of the flash memory, such that the processor encounters it as
it sequentially executes instructions. This pointer sends control
to a 1 k bootstrap within the flash memory which has a swap
instruction. The swap instruction transfers processor control from
the external flash memory to the X-ram memory, where some
instructions reside. It is necessary that the address of the swap
instruction in the flash memory corresponds to the same address in
the X-ram memory, due to the fact that the core processor 340 will
receive its next instruction from the swap address +1. Now that
control has switched to the internal X-ram memory 334, the
processor 340 is free to write to the flash memory. The processor
will continue to write to the flash until a swap command is
encountered within the X-ram memory, at which time control will
transfer back to the flash and execution will commence as before.
As seen in FIG. 30, X-ram memory 334 communicates with the core
processor 340 via a multiplexed address and data bus 570, and with
the flash memory decode 338 via bus 572 and control lines 574. One
of the control lines includes a write enable line that allows the
X-ram to write to the flash, while the read enable permits the
X-ram to read from the flash. As seen in FIG. 31, the flash memory
decode 338 acts as an interface between the flash memory and the
rest of the circuitry. Information is sent between the flash memory
and the flash memory decode by way of an address bus 576, a data
bus 578, and several control lines 580. The control lines will
disable the flash memory when the lockset controller 28 is in sleep
mode, and perform the previously mentioned data and program enable
functions. As seen in the smart key control 314, level shifter 582
will adjust the voltage levels of the signals passing back in forth
to the flash memory to ensure that they are compatible with the
rest of the controller circuitry. Information on the data bus 578
is passed directly to the core processor 340 once it has been
processed by the level shifter 582, and vice versa. Address
information, however, is first generated by the core processor 340,
passed through a demultiplexer 584, and then split into two
identical branches. The first branch 586 is directly sent to the
X-ram memory, the second branch 588 is sent to the flash memory,
via the level shifter 582. The instruction located at that
particular address will be retrieved from whichever memory source
has the control.
[0099] The scratchpad memory 336 seen in FIG. 32 stores the time
register as well as all system variables. The scratchpad memory 336
communicates exclusively with the internal registers of the core
processor 340 and is accessed through a single address bus, two
data buses, and several control lines.
[0100] In operation, the lockset controller 28 is usually in a low
power consuming sleep mode until awakened by one of several wakeup
events, at which time the lockset controller begins an active mode
which executes a series of instructions determined by the
particular wakeup event which has occurred. During the active mode,
the core processor 340 retrieves instructions stored in either the
X-ram or flash memory as well as status information stored in the
special function registers 318. Once the instructions and
information is obtained, the core processor takes control of one or
more devices located on or external to the lockset controller
28.
[0101] During the sleep mode, the low power oscillator 302 supplies
a 32.768 kHz clock signal to several components and is the only
device on the lockset controller 28 which is in active operation.
There are several events that may bring the lockset controller 28
out of sleep mode and into the active mode, they include: a wakeup
signal from the real time clock 304, activation of the smart card
switch, activation of the deadbolt, microswitch 106, activation of
the knob switch, activity on the serial port, or a signal from the
IR receiver. All signals representative of these wakeup events, are
channeled through the wakeup control 312, which acts as an
interface between the wakeup devices and the core processor 340. As
previously mentioned, the real time clock 304 acts as a
programmable counter which periodically issues a wakeup signal
based on a 32.768 kHz signal from the low power oscillator 302. As
seen in FIG. 15, the real time clock receives a low frequency clock
signal on one of the inputs 364, increments a counter register 360,
and issues a wakeup signal on output 366 when the counter register
reaches a certain, programmable value. Consequently, the real time
clock 304 initiates a type of status check by waking the lockset
controller 28 up every so often, even if there is no other activity
throughout the lockset controller.
[0102] As previously mentioned, other events which can awake the
lockset controller 28 include activation of a smart card switch and
activation of deadbolt microswitch 106. These switches are
electromechanical devices coupled to specific external components,
such as the deadbolt 198 or the key card reader 26, and are
electrically connected to the switch control 308 such that they
inform the lockset controller 28 when there has been activation of
these components, as previously explained. For example, a switch
within the key card reader 26 informs the lockset controller 28 of
the insertion of a smart key card, just as another switch indicates
a change of the deadbolt position. The signals generated by these
switches act as wakeup signals, just like the wakeup signal
generated by the real time clock 304, and are received by the
switch control 308. As seen in FIG. 17, input lines 390 receive
signals from the switches, switch power control 392 alerts the
switch debounce control 394 of a change in input state, switch
debounce checks the signals to ensure their authenticity, and a
wakeup control output line 398 issues a wakeup signal depending on
which switch has been activated. Unlike the wakeup signal produced
by the real time clock 304, the signals sent by the
electro-mechanical switches may contain a lot of static and noise
and therefore must be checked by switch control 308 before being
sent as wakeup signals. Again, this conserves power consumption by
decreasing the amount of noisy switch signals which are
misinterpreted as wakeup signals and inadvertently wake the lockset
controller 28 up out of low power consumption sleep mode.
[0103] Activity on the serial port control 310 may also bring the
lockset controller 28 out of sleep mode. Activity on the serial
port will alert wakeup control 312 over the serial receiver line,
which is one of the inputs 380. Accordingly, if any external
device, such as a lockset interrogator 212, is attempting to
communicate with the lockset controller 28 via the serial port, the
wakeup control module 312 will alert the necessary components of
the lockset controller. Another potential wake up event is activity
detected by the IR receiver. The IR receiver is located external to
the lockset controller 28 and receives infrared signals. Upon
reception of any IR signal, the IR receiver issues a wakeup request
signal which, like the previous wake up signals, is sent to the
edge detector 382 via inputs 380. Once the edge detector sees a
rising or falling edge sufficient to indicate a change in the state
of the signal, the wakeup control 312 wakes up the core processor
340 and resets certain registers. It should be noted, the wakeup
control will not reset the core processor 340 if the processor is
already awake.
[0104] After the processor 340 receives a wakeup signal, it informs
the high speed oscillator 306 that it is awake which in turn
provides the processor 340 with a high speed clock signal. As seen
in FIG. 16, the oscillator enable input 372 allows the high speed
oscillator to multiply the slower clock signal and thereby provide
the processor 340 with a fast clock signal more conducive to the
active mode.
[0105] If the real time clock 304 produced the wakeup signal which
brought the processor into operational mode, the processor 340
performs a series of status checking functions. These functions may
include checking the status of the various switches, the battery
level, lock malfunctions, or any other function requiring a
periodic check. Upon performing status checking functions, the
processor 340 updates the special function registers 318 to record
any changes in the status of the lockset controller 28, as well as
potentially activating an external device, such as the LED display
140, of any potential problems.
[0106] If the processor 340 has been awakened by the activation of
the smart card switch, the processor uses the smart key control 314
to communicate with the smart key card via the serial port. As
previously mentioned, the processor may write information to or
read information from the smart key card via the smart card key
control 314 and serial port. Such information could include writing
to the smart key card the number of times that particular lock has
been unlocked, the number of times that particular key has been
inserted into that lock, or any other event worth recording. If the
smart key card is correctly configured for that particular lock,
the processor 340 instructs the motor drivers 326 to drive the
electric motor 30 accordingly.
[0107] Upon such an instruction, motor control signals are sent to
the motor drivers 326 via inputs 500. These inputs are decoded by
the H-bridge decoder 502 and thereafter instruct the current sink
and source drivers to turn on the appropriate transistors. As
previously explained, this allows the processor to dictate in which
direction the lock motor 30 operates and consequently can determine
if the locking mechanism 22 is engaged or unengaged. To determine
when the locking or unlocking operation is complete, the current
sensing module 324 monitors the current through the motor 30 via
the voltage across a resistor 520 and compares the current against
a "baseline" reference current. When the motor 30 is rotated such
that the locking mechanism cannot be extended further, the clutch
48 slips or "hops", thereby causing a spike in the current in
relation to the baseline current. As baseline current draws vary
between motors and depend on a number of additional factors
including temperature, the lockset controller 28 is programmed to
establish a new baseline current value each time the motor 30 is
energized.
[0108] It is important to note however, in addition to sensing the
amount of electrical current which is being sent to the motor 30,
the motor drivers 326 draw upon tabulated data to set a minimum and
maximum duration for powering the motor. In this manner, if the
current sensing module 324 determines that the locking mechanism
has reached an obstruction before the predetermined minimum
duration, the processor 340 will continue to power the motor 30
until that minimum time is reached. Likewise, if the maximum time
duration is reached before the current sensing module 324 indicates
that the lock has reached a final position, the processor 340 will
instruct the motor drivers 326 to stop powering the motor. The
minimum run time typically corresponds to a value that is at least
marginally longer than the amount of time normally required to move
the sliding stop 34 into engagement with the handle hub 16. This
excess run time ensures that the sliding stop 34 fully engages the
complementary recess in the hub 16 under adverse conditions such as
increased friction due to lack of lubrication, contamination,
component wear, etc. The maximum motor run time may be established
as a function of battery charge level, i.e., the amount of voltage
remaining in the four batteries that power the motor 30. The
lockset controller 28 senses the battery voltage and limits the
motor run time accordingly. If the battery charge level is
relatively high, the maximum motor run time is set to a relatively
high value. If battery charge level is relatively low, the maximum
motor run time will be proportionally reduced to extend the life of
the battery. Alternatively, the maximum and minimum motor run times
may be established by using an algorithm or other acceptable
means.
[0109] Activation of the smart card switch may also prompt the
processor to engage the magnetic head reader 138, as a magnetic
strip and smart key card are both read from the same external slot.
Again, the processor 340 might engage the motor drivers 326 if the
information on the magnetic strip is so configured.
[0110] The lockset controller 28 may further include a "hassle"
feature that prompts the user to take notice of any fault
indication that might be displayed on the LED display module 140.
The lockset controller is configured to detect lock malfunctions
and to illuminate a red fault indicator LED 96 in response to such
lockset apparatus malfunctions. Under normal operation, the lockset
controller reverses the motor 30 and retracts the sliding stop 34
in response to a single key card insertion, assuming of course that
the key card includes the correct code for entry. However, if a
lockset apparatus malfunction is detected, the lockset controller
28 reverses the motor 30 and causes the sliding stop 34 to retract
from the handle hub 16 only after the second of two key card
insertions made within a predetermined time period. This "hassle
feature" prompts the user to notice and attend to lockset apparatus
malfunctions indicated by the red LED malfunction indicator light
96. In other words, the hassle feature prompts certain users which
the lockset controller 28 identifies by the configuration of their
key cards, to notice a fault indication by requiring two insertions
of a key card before reversing the motor 30 and unlocking the hub
16. Preferably, the lockset controller 28 is programmed to notify
only those responsible for attending to such malfunctions such as
the holders of master key cards.
[0111] The electronic mortise lockset apparatus 10 also includes an
employee access tracking system that allows employers to determine
which rooms, in an establishment such as a hotel or office
building, each of their employees have gained access to or
attempted to gain access to, and at what times. The method includes
installing electronic mortise locksets 10, of the type described
above, in the doors to various rooms of the establishment. As with
the lockset described above, each of these locksets includes a
latch bolt 14 retractable by the turning of a door handle 18
operably connected to the latch bolt 14. Each lockset also includes
a lockout mechanism 22 that prevents the handle 18 from being
turned when the lockout mechanism 22 is in an engaged position.
Each of the installed locksets also includes a key card reader
module 26 that identifies properly configured "smart" key cards and
a lockset controller 28 that commands the lockout mechanism 22 to
disengage when the key card reader module 26 identifies a properly
configured key card.
[0112] To employ the tracking system, each of a number of different
key card users (employees) are provided with a "smart" key card
that, as described above, includes a processor, RAM, and ROM. In
addition, each lockset controller 28 is programmed to upload a
first set of access data to the RAM of the "smart" key card
whenever that key card is used to unlock the electronic mortise
lockset 10. This first set of access data includes a door
identification number assigned to the door that the lockset is
mounted in and the time and date that the card was inserted into
the card reader module 26. The "smart" key cards distributed to
employees would each include a revolving memory that remembers
approximately the last 500 lock insertions.
[0113] At the same time that the first set of access data is
uploaded to the key card RAM, a second set of access data is
downloaded to the memory of the lockset apparatus. This second set
of access data includes an identification number assigned to the
key card and the time and date that the card was inserted into the
card reader module 26.
[0114] The lockset controller 28 will not power up the motor 30 to
unlock the lockout mechanism 22 until after writing the access data
to the key card and lock RAM. This prevents a user from unlocking
the door then quickly withdrawing his or her key card before access
data can be written.
[0115] After issuing the "smart" key cards to the users, the key
card users are then permitted to go about their business on the
premises using their key cards to gain entry to various rooms on
the premises, unlocking the locksets by inserting the key cards
into the key readers of the locksets. Each time a key card user
inserts one of the key cards into one of the locksets, the lockset
that the key card is inserted into automatically writes the access
data from the lockset controller 28 to the key card memory and the
lock memory as described above. Because the first set of access
data downloaded to each key card includes a record of the time that
the key was inserted into that lockset, each key card maintains an
accurate and comprehensive record of which locksets/doors that card
holder unlocked and when.
[0116] At the end of each workday each user's key card is inserted
into a separate key card reader module connected to a microcomputer
programmed to compile key card access information. The
microcomputer is programmed to display or print-out a report that
identifies which locksets each key holder opened and at what times.
In this way, an employer can easily determine which rooms each of
his employees gained access to through the day and the times that
each employee gained access to those rooms. This method obviates
the need to travel throughout the premises downloading access data
from each lock separately. However, the access data can be
downloaded from lockset memory to confirm data downloaded from key
card RAM.
[0117] There are numerous sequences of events which could occur as
the result of a wakeup signal originating from either a component
within the lockset controller or external to it. It should be
noted, that the particular response to the individual wake up
events is software programmable and resides in the code of the
system.
[0118] In alternative embodiments, the key card reader module 26
may include any suitable key card reading device to include one
that is configured to receive and read a memory card rather than a
"smart" card--or that is configured to receive and read either a
memory card or a "smart" card. (A memory card is different from a
smart card in that it does not include either RAM or a processor.)
In this case, a properly configured key card would include a
predetermined program code that the key card reader module 26 would
download data from. However, the key card reader module 26 would
not upload data to the card.
[0119] In still other embodiments the key card reading device may
be an optical scanner configured to read bar code patterns. In this
case, a properly configured key card would include a predetermined
bar code pattern readable by such an optical scanner.
[0120] The advanced design of an electronic mortise lockset
apparatus 10 constructed according to the invention provides a
number of advantages over prior art systems. The lockset controller
28, programmed as described, can both extend battery life by
limiting motor run time and can help to insure full lockout
mechanism engagement. By holding the sliding stop 34 in engagement
with the handle hub 16, the lockout mechanism 22 insures that the
lockset remains securely locked even when subjected to significant
shock and vibration. The components of the lockset apparatus 10 are
easy to assemble and disassemble for ease of service and/or
modification. The lockset apparatus 10 is sturdy enough to survive
a tremendous amount of torque applied to the door handle 18. All
the components of the lockset are internally mounted in the lockset
case 12 to preclude exposure to corrosive environmental effects.
The slip clutch 48 of the lockout mechanism 22 prevents motor 30
damage that might otherwise result from stalling of the motor 30
caused by jamming, obstructions, or increased resistance to an
application of force to the handle 18 during motor 30 operation.
The gearbox 32 of the lockout mechanism 22 provides low cam
rotation speed while allowing the motor 30 to run at high speed.
High motor 30 speed provides more torque and helps keep motor 30
brushes clean. Mounting the microswitch 106 of the deadbolt
position indicator on the motherboard 78 is a lower cost
alternative to mounting the microswitch 106 at the end of the
harness wire in a remote location.
[0121] I intend this description to illustrate certain embodiments
of the invention rather than to limit the invention. Therefore I
have used descriptive words rather than limiting words. Obviously,
it is possible to modify this invention from what the description
teaches. Within the scope of the claims one may practice the
invention other than as described.
* * * * *